Sam Bailey is to star alongside Jordie Prenger in the brand new stage musical Fat Friends when it bursts on to the stage with its World Premiere at Leeds Grand Theatre later this year.
Number one recording artist Sam Bailey, who rose to fame winning the tenth series of The X Factor, will join the previously announced Jodie Prenger in this original British musical. Sam takes the much-loved role of Betty, originated on screen by Alison Steadman.
“I’m absolutely delighted to have been cast for the new musical of Fat Friends,” says Sam. “I loved the show when it was on ITV and I feel so honoured to be working with some very talented people – Kay Mellor and Nick Lloyd Webber in particular!! I know I am going to learn so much from working with them and I can’t wait to start rehearsals!”
Sam shot into the hearts of the nation in 2013 when the former Prison Officer won ITV’s The X Factor and reached Christmas number one with her first single, ‘Skyscraper’. She has gone on to receive public acclaim for her role as Mama Morton in the recent UK tour of Chicago.
The award-winning TV drama has been adapted for the stage by its creator Kay Mellor; one of the UK’s most prolific writers Kay’s extensive television credits include hit series of Band of Gold, The Chase, The Syndicate, In the Club and whose stage credits include A Passionate Woman. With original music by Nicholas Lloyd Webber, Fat Friends – The Musical will open at Leeds Grand Theatre in November ahead of an extensive UK tour.
‘I watched every episode of The X Factor when Sam was in it” says Kay. “To me she was an ordinary woman; a mother and a wife who had the voice of an angel and a wonderfully warm personality. It was one of those rare times that I actually picked up the phone and voted. I auditioned Sam for about one minute for Fat Friends the Musical – as soon as she said my words and I looked in her eyes, I knew that she understood the character of Betty. She is an instinctive actress that will bring great depth and warmth to the character. I’m delighted to be working with her.”
Fat Friends The Musical, sees the nation’s favourite group of dieters reunited with award-winning Jodie Prenger leading the company in the role of Kelly Stevenson – further casting to be announced.
Fat Friends The Musical opens at Leeds Grand Theatre on Tuesday November 7th and runs until Saturday 2nd December
Tickets are on sale now priced from £20 to £50
Book online at leedsgrandtheatre.com or call Box Office on 0844 848 2700
